🌄 South Downs Serpent Trail Hike – Haslemere, Black Down & Temple of the Winds
Join GO London Hiking for a scenic adventure through the northern edges of the South Downs National Park. This route follows part of the Serpent Trail, weaving through heathland, woodland, and panoramic viewpoints with fascinating history and literature connections. We begin in the market town of Haslemere, before heading across Marley Common, one of the National Trust’s earliest countryside acquisitions, where broadleaf woodland and heath are grazed by belted Galloway cattle. From here, we reach Fernhurst, once home to philosopher Bertrand Russell, before climbing steeply to the Temple of the Winds for breathtaking views across the South Downs and, on clear days, the English Channel. Our hike continues to Black Down, the highest point in Sussex, where poet Alfred Tennyson once lived and built Aldworth House as his summer retreat. The route returns us to Haslemere, where we can enjoy a well-earned pub stop before catching the train home.
🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info
- Meeting Time: 09:00 London Waterloo Station (under the main clock)
- Train Departure: 09:30 Waterloo → Haslemere (arrives 10:20, 50 mins journey) return ticket to Haslemere.
- Walk Start: 10:25 Haslemere Station
- Lunch: Pack lunch (with water & snacks)
- Estimated Finish: 17:30 Haslemere Station
- 🚆 Book via 👉 Trainline Booking (Affiliate)
📍 Hike Overview
- Grade: Beginner/Intermediate 🥾🥾
- Distance: 19 km (12 miles)
- Ascent: 600 m
- Hiking Time: 6 hrs (plus breaks)
- Terrain: Rough tracks, heathland, woodland & hills
- Pace: Steady with regular breaks
- Cost: £10 (pay on RSVP)
- Hike Leader: Gary – 📞 07968585224 | 📩 golondongary@hotmail.co.uk
🎒 What to Bring
✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes ✅ Waterproof jacket & spare layers ✅ Packed lunch, snacks & water ✅ Return train ticket London–Haslemere
💬 What to Expect
A social and friendly hike – most join solo and leave with new friends. 🧭 Qualified, insured GO London hike leaders ensure your safety and a great experience.
📲 Stay Connected
📞 07968585224 📩 Email: golondongary@hotmail.co.uk 🌐 Website 🎟️ Eventbrite Page 📸 Instagram 👍 Facebook Page 👥 Facebook Group 🐦 X / Twitter 💼 LinkedIn
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